Nigeria will join the global community today to celebrate World Maritime Day 2024, themed “Navigating the Future: Safety First.” The event underscores Nigeria’s commitment to aligning its maritime practices with international safety standards.

His Excellency Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, highlighted the significance of this year’s theme. “Safety is a cornerstone for building a robust and business-friendly maritime sector,” Oyetola stated. He emphasized that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is focused on leveraging the Blue Economy to significantly boost Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Dr. Dayo Mobereola, Director General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), reassured stakeholders and investors of the safety of Nigerian waters. “Safety is central to our mandate at NIMASA,” Mobereola affirmed. “We are dedicated to implementing policies that ensure a secure and sustainable maritime environment.”

Engr. Israel Obada, President of the Association of Marine Engineers and Surveyors (AMES), stressed the importance of vessel safety. “The health of vessels and their classification are critical for the overall safety of the maritime sector,” Obada noted. “Safety remains a global priority, and we are committed to maintaining high standards in Nigeria.”

Engr. Emmanuel Ilori, a member of AMES, echoed the call for heightened safety measures. “We look forward to collaborating with NIMASA to ensure that all ships in Nigerian waters meet safety standards, supporting the Blue Economy’s goal for a sustainable ocean.”

World Maritime Day, first celebrated in 1978 to mark the 20th anniversary of the IMO Convention, continues to highlight key aspects of maritime safety, security, and environmental protection. Nigeria’s commemoration, featuring Minister Oyetola and various Ministry agencies, will take place in Lagos.